Government Code §8219.5 applies to any non-attorney notary who advertises notarial services in a language other than English — through signs, business cards, flyers, or any other written communication. A single desk plaque is the only exemption.
Such a notary must post a prescribed notice in both English and the other language, which must contain exactly two things:
1. The statement: "I am not an attorney and, therefore, cannot give legal advice about immigration or any other legal matters."
2. The statutory fee schedule for notarial services.
Separately, §8219.5(c) prohibits using "notario publico," "notario," or any equivalent foreign-language translation of "notary public" — even if the prescribed notice is properly posted.
A first offense requires the Secretary of State to suspend or revoke the commission. A second offense means permanent revocation.
Exam Tip: Both required elements — the disclaimer and the fee schedule — must appear in the notice. Posting only the "I am not an attorney" statement without the fee schedule violates §8219.5. This two-part requirement catches people who assume the statement alone is enough.
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